BRATTLEBORO — With the return of winter, it's worth reflecting on our good fortune to live where there is such a strong tradition of Nordic sports and other winter recreational activity.
In Brattleboro, we have a history of getting out to enjoy the snow that goes back to the 1930s, when Fred Harris helped build the ski jump that now bears his name.
Harris was also one of the founders of the Brattleboro Outing Club, which continues to sponsor the Harris Hill Jump each year, as well as promoting cross-country skiing, tennis, canoeing, and rowing.
BOC has provided programs for young skiers for decades, including Olympic medalist Bill Koch, one of the many successful athletes emerging from its instructional and competitive leagues.
Another of BOC's signature achievements, in terms of its impact on the wider community, is now on display: the first-class cross-country ski layout in operation on the Brattleboro Country Club and surrounding woods and pastures.
We discovered this community treasure when we came here in the 1970s, and BOC has been where we've looked for our winter recreational activities ever since.
Whether you are a proficient skate-skier, a diehard classic cross-country enthusiast who loves a groomed track (perhaps while still on wooden skis), or a novice encouraged by all this beautiful powder to get out to try the Nordic experience, you will find great terrain for your ambitions - and right now the snow conditions are simply exquisite!
BOC maintains this fabulous touring center as a volunteer organization with modest membership dues, so great skiing requires little cost and almost no travel.
As an alternative, for those looking for a “backcountry” adventure a little closer to home, the Retreat Trails behind the Harris Hill Jump have been tracked out by skiers and snowshoers. (Google “Retreat Trails” for a map.)
As long as the snow stays fresh - it's a bit more treacherous after a thaw and refreeze - this wintery fairyland of pines and hardwoods is very accessible to those of reasonable fitness and intermediate skills on skis or snowshoes. With the abundance of opportunities literally in our backyard, no one should succumb to dismay in the cold months.
Go find out why so many still claim that winter is the best season in Vermont!